THE Barmera jetty was reopened to the public yesterday, as the local council prepares to go to the community for ideas about the future of the popular landmark.
The jetty was closed by the Berri Barmera Council in June to allow for maintenance works, with a propping device installed to allow for continued use of the structure while design options are investigated.
Berri Barmera Mayor Peter Hunt said the next step would be undertaking public consultation to gauge the wishes of the community.
“We’re going to work out our best options and see what the community wants,” he said.
“I’ve had some talks with some community members and they say they want it back how it was, as a U-shaped jetty.
“Other people – including myself – want it to stay how it is but be extended out.
“There are plenty of options, so we’ll just wait and see what people like.
“This will be quite a big project so we’ll certainly be looking for funding opportunities to help us deliver it.”
This consultation is currently expected to take place in this financial year, with a $30,000 allocation for planning for the future upgrade in the council’s draft budget.
Council infrastructure services manager Dave Otto de Grancy said the propping solution cost about $59,000 and would last safely for three to five years, with a lifespan of up to seven years.
“The other option (replacing all posts) was in the $200,000 range,” he said.
“Using the other option wouldn’t have given us the flexibility to decide the design for the future.
“At least now we have a clean slate where the community can let us know what they really want to see happen with that jetty.
“We’ve also now got the time to apply for funding.”
The jetty sustained damage in April 2020 following a storm which caused a rotting post to snap.
The almost 100-year-old structure has long surpassed its expected lifespan of 20-50 years.
Mr Otto de Grancy said he was “really excited” to see the suggestions provided by the community during the public consultation period.
“There are no preconceived ideas, it will be up to the community,” he said.
“I can’t wait to see what people want and I hope that it is achievable.
“I’m a traditionalist – I’d like to see the old style of jetty put there myself, but then on the other hand you can come up with some cool designs that could make the lake front look amazing.
“Whichever way the community decides to go, I’ll be excited to help make it happen.”